About the Catch-Up Time Calculator
How long a faster object takes to catch a slower one that started earlier or ahead.
Also known as: overtaking calculator, how long to catch up, chase problem.
How to use this calculator
- Enter speed of the chaser, speed of the leader, head start distance, head start time (hours).
- The result updates instantly as you type — press Calculate (or Enter) at any time.
- Review the breakdown shown under the main result.
- Use Copy result or Share to save the answer or send a link with your inputs.
Formula
Time = gap ÷ (fast speed − slow speed)
Worked example
Using the values pre-filled in the calculator above:
- Speed of the chaser = 90
- Speed of the leader = 60
- Head start distance = 0
- Head start time (hours) = 0.5
the calculator returns:
- Catch-up time: 1 hours
- Minutes: 60
- Distance from chaser’s start: 90
- Head start gap: 30